Louis Tomlinson returns with his second single as a solo artist and first solo single, “Just Like You.” He showcases both potential and areas for growth.

Poor Louis Tomlinson.  As of yet, he’s the only One Direction member not to experience substantial solo success.  Contextually speaking, by substantial, we mean hitting the top echelon of the Billboard Hot 100.  His colleagues have all landed in Top 20, while Tomlinson’s first single, “Back to You,” has only been a moderate hit.  Tomlinson hopes to right the ship with his second single, “Just Like You.”

There’s plenty to like about “Just Like You.” First and foremost is the voice.  None of the other members of One Direction sound remotely like Tomlinson. He has a light, incredibly high voice that’s also highly appealing.  The ease with which he sings with is one of his strengths.  Naturally, he sings “Just Like You” well.  The production is relatively light as well, which suits the timbre and texture of Tomlinson’s instrument.  Also boding well in LT’s favor? The chorus, which is chief among the selling points.

“I’m just like you / Even though my problems look nothing like your do / Yeah, I get sad too / And when I’m down I need somebody to talk to / Yeah, I feel the same as you do / Same stress, same shit to go through / I’m just like you / If you only knew.”

Mostly, it’s all good for Louis Tomlinson on “Just Like You.”  There are a few rubs – some nitpicks.  The production is fitting, but it lacks the ‘wow factor.’ Vocally, while Tomlinson gives a solid performance, it would be nice for him to grow more distinct as a solo artist.  Essentially, he needs to ‘own it,’ which he isn’t quite yet.  Part of this is attributed to the lightness of his voice, but if you compare him to, say the gruffer Harry Styles, you want him to ‘dig in’ more.

Final Thoughts

All in all, Louis Tomlinson delivers another respectable offering with “Just Like You.” It’s great to hear him solo (no offense Bebe Rexha), but it also shows where he could stand to grow artistically.

Louis Tomlinson • Just Like You – Single • Syco / Sony • Release: 10.12.17

Photo Credit: Syco / Sony